The U.S. military is reportedly ready to deploy hundreds of National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., as part of President Trump’s aggressive federal crackdown on crime in the nation’s capital. While a final decision has not been made, two U.S. officials confirmed the Guard is prepared for activation. This move coincides with the deployment of 120 FBI agents assisting local police in high-crime areas, many of whom reportedly lack specific local patrol training.

Trump previewed the plan on Truth Social, writing, “Be prepared! There will be no ‘MR. NICE GUY.’ We want our Capital BACK.” The deployment follows his March 28 executive order titled “Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful,” aimed at curbing crime, illegal immigration, and homelessness. Trump also declared, “The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY,” promising alternative shelters far from the city center. He criticized D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser but added she was “a good person.”

Mayor Bowser responded on MSNBC, disputing Trump’s depiction of the city. She pointed out that violent crime is down 26% compared to 2024, and juvenile arrests have decreased by 20%. Despite this, the White House maintains that D.C. continues to struggle with both petty and violent crime.

Federal operations launched last Thursday have already resulted in eight arrests, the seizure of two illegal firearms, over 900 grams of various drugs, and $3,600 in cash. The crackdown was partly prompted by a recent assault on Edward Coristine, a former federal employee who was attacked while trying to prevent a carjacking.

Critics argue that the administration’s response is excessive and lacks compassion. “That money could be better spent getting folks housing and support,” said Jesse Rabinowitz, campaign and communications director at the National Homelessness Law Center, in a statement to the Washington Post.